Chiropractic FAQ

1. What is Chiropractic?

The main goal of chiropractic is to discover and treat the causes of physical problems, rather than deal with the symptoms. The original chiropractic theory is based on an extremely simple principle… Read More

2. Is Chiropractic safe?

Chiropractic adjustments are very controlled, non-invasive, treatments and they are generally considered low-risk procedures, with reduced complications. Chiropractic can be considered safe when performed… Read More

3. Do I have a Slipped Disc?

Spinal discs lie between each pair of vertebrae (spinal bones) and are composed of two parts: a fibrous outer portion and jelly-like inner core. The core of the discs serves as a “ball bearing” for joint movement. Because of the way spinal discs attach to the vertebrae, they cannot actually slip. Discs can bulge, tear, herniate, thin, collapse, dry out… but they do not slip!

4. What is a Subluxation?

A subluxation is a condition that commonly affects the spine and which is successfully treated by chiropractors. It consists primarily of a slight misalignment of the vertebrae and it can occur… Read More

5. What’s an Adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is a highly refined manual process that is developed through years of intensive studies, training and practice. Proper chiropractic adjustments have a specific amount of energy, delivered to a precise spot, at the right angle. The chiropractor uses his/her hands to adjust the joints, especially those of the spine, in order to reduce pain and restore proper dynamism, balance and range of movement. The technique can be adapted to each patient according to his/her individual needs, symptoms and comfort levels.

6. Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?

No, chiropractic adjustments are usually gentle and do not hurt.

7. What makes the sound during the adjustment?

Sometimes, you may hear a “pop” noise in the middle of a chiropractic adjustment. This particular sound is called a cavitation, and it’s essentially caused by the shift of gas inside the joints. Gas, together with lubricating fluids, bursts to fill a partial vacuum which is created when the surfaces of the joints are separated.

8. Is everyone adjusted the same way?

No, each individual diagnosis and care plan is unique. Patient’s care is custom-tailored according to age, gender, symptoms, expectations and comfort levels. You are unique – why should your chiropractic care be any different?

9. Can I adjust myself?

No – even your chiropractor consults a colleague to benefit from chiropractic care! You can make your joints “pop”, but you cannot perform a real chiropractic adjustment before years of specific training. Serious damage can be caused by mobilising a joint with weakened ligaments – better avoid the risk of making things worse.

10. How many chiropractic adjustments will I need?

Each case is unique and can require a specific duration/frequency of treatment. The number of sessions can vary according to individual health goals. Most people notice progress within a week or two. As the stability of your spine improves, you will generally visit your chiropractor less and less often. In the most extreme chronic cases, a process of complete healing can take several months.

11. Can babies and children get adjustments?

Most kids enjoy their chiropractic adjustments! The chiropractic theory is based on essential biological and physiological principles that apply to both adults and children. The treatment can be equally beneficial to adults, children and babies. Paediatric chiropractic adjustments are extremely gentle on newborns: your chiropractor will apply the same pressure you’d use to test the ripeness of an avocado. During childhood, periodic examinations by a chiropractor can help to prevent and identify deficiencies or postural weaknesses that may predispose children to significant spinal problems. Typical ‘growing pains’ can often be traced to the spine. Chiropractic care is always adapted to the individual and in the case of children, the treatment is very specific and delicate.

12. Am I too old for chiropractic adjustments?

Chiropractic is highly recommended and beneficial for elderly patients. Through the use of appropriate and individualised adjustment techniques, a chiropractic doctor can help older patients improve mobility and vitality, reducing the symptoms of diseases typically attributed to ageing, such as arthritis and osteoporosis.

13. Can I receive chiropractic adjustments if I had back surgery?

Yes. Rest assured that your chiropractic doctor will avoid the surgically modified areas of your spine. Surgery often causes instability above or below the involved level. These areas will be the focus of your chiropractic care.

14. I have osteoporosis, can I see a chiropractor?

Yes, of course. Chiropractic techniques are non-invasive and chiropractors always take into account the patient’s health status. When developing a treatment plan, an experienced chiropractic doctor will consider the unique circumstances and expectations of each patient.

15. I am experiencing acute pain, should I wait before seeing a chiropractor?

Many of our patients begin their treatment as they experience episodes of acute pain. There are no contraindications and numerous scientific studies show that chiropractic can help you reduce the pain quickly.

16. How long until I’ll start feeling better?

The chance of obtaining very fast results is one of the reasons why many people choose chiropractic care. A large number of factors can affect the duration of the treatment plan – some patients experience instant relief, while for others it can take a couple of weeks or even months. While individual circumstances and chronic conditions might stretch the necessary healing process, normally patients start sensing progress and feeling less pain within a short period of time.

17. What’s the difference between osteopathy and chiropractic?

Chiropractic and osteopathy were started at the same time, both in the US. There are some similarities between the two professions, but the main difference is that chiropractic care focuses on the spine and nervous system, while osteopathy focuses on the heart and the cardiovascular system.

18. Will I receive any medications from my chiropractor?

Chiropractic doctors don’t dispense drugs. Chiropractic is hands-on healthcare and it never involves drugs or surgery.

19. Will my insurance policy cover chiropractic?

Chiropractic care is included in most health insurance plans, but some plans may have limitations or exclusions applicable to chiropractic. Check your benefit plan description for details and please do not hesitate to ask us if you have any doubts.

20. How long will I need chiropractic care?

The manual nature of chiropractic treatment is the reason why patients normally see their chiropractor several times. While some medical treatment plans that can be continued at home (for example, taking antibiotics once a day for a couple of weeks), a patient needs to see the chiropractor for chiropractic care. After patients reach their initial health goals, many choose to continue with periodic visits to the chiropractor. It’s entirely up to you to decide how much chiropractic care you want to receive!

21. What if chiropractic doesn’t work?

If chiropractic appears not to be suitable for you, you will be referred to a GP, physiotherapist, neurologist, orthopaedic surgeon or relevant specialist. Your health and well-being are our only goals.